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Artists document studio conversations through their art

North Central College presents “Studio Conversations,” a three-person show featuring art by Mary Bookwalter, Janice Meister and Carol Weber. This exhibit is free to the public and will be on display through March 23 in North Central’s Oesterle Library Gallery at 320 E. School Street.

Bookwalter, Meister and Weber are artists and friends who have collectively discussed and critiqued their art for many years. Knowing that artists work in the vacuum of their own studios, they found that sharing the actual art-making process is an invaluable part of this usually solitary venture. They also saw that their art-making processes of mixed media collage and the common themes within their works were a strong basis for an exhibition. Their collaborative show idea was born around the interactions they have with each other’s artwork.

Nature is among the most prevalent theme they share, both in subject matter and materials used to create the work. Each artist has her own interpretation, but imagery of landscapes, tree branches and organic forms can be seen in many of the pieces. As Weber explains, “My inspiration has always come from nature and architecture, particularly buildings that are a little worn around the edges and landscapes that enthuse a sense of quiet awe. An idea for a piece can come from as simple an act as picking up a branch during a walk on the beach.”

Bookwalter’s inspiration comes from wide open landscapes. “There is a connection between the land and sky in that sort of environment, which I find impossible to ignore” she says. “The lure of the unexplored and the mystery of the out-of-bounds. My work often depicts altered landscapes, maps and symbols, which tell a story of love for the land with ink, paper and press.” Meister also expresses her love of nature and organic forms and how they have long been the center of her art work. This focus takes her beyond a visual description and allows her to explore elements related to defining the subject.

This exhibit is among many ongoing programs at North Central College to enrich and broaden the cultural and academic outlook for the College and community. North Central offers a variety of venues accommodating a rich range of local and world-class events, performances and space needs for the public. For a comprehensive schedule of musical performances, theatrical and dance productions, art exhibits and more, visit northcentralcollege.edu/show or call the box office at 630-637-SHOW (7469).